We’re just 51 days out from the start of the World Cup! And today on the podcast, we look at Psalm 51 and the Soccer Psalm 51. Infidelity is a massive problem in soccer (and professional sport, in general) and Psalm 51 gives us a look at the confession of David after his affair and subsequent impregnation of Bathsheba had been revealed and that first son had died. David offers words and a song of repentance.

Similarly, Soccer Psalm 51 acknowledges sin and the need for God’s forgiveness. Perhaps one of my favorite lines in writing The Soccer Psalms comes with the line in verse 5 “studs up, intent to injure.” David had killed one of his best and most loyal friends and warriors — Uriah. Worse than a career or season-ending injury caused by a studs up challenge, David had taken life to cover up his sin. He needed forgiveness. We need forgiveness, for our sins — and God’s the only one who can clean us from the guilt of those things.

The Soccer Psalms, is a self-published book available on Amazon. (You can also find The Football Psalms-a British version-if you appreciate the different terms around the game). Both books are available globally on Amazon and contain 31 psalms that have been translated into “soccer psalms” — with words, language, and metaphors that connect soccer to God’s Word. I also include some reflection on the context and writing as well as some questions for reflection. Check out the book below:

The Soccer Psalms: https://mybook.to/thesoccerpsalms

The Football Psalms: https://mybook.to/thefootballpsalms-uk

Los Salmos del Fútbol: https://mybook.to/lossalmosdelfutbol

From the Touchline is a short-feature (10-15 min) podcast with Rev Brad Kenney, Founder and Executive Director of Soccer Chaplains United and Volunteer Chaplain to the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer. Rev Brad and occasional guests touch on various issues around the topics of faith, family, and football (soccer).

Also, don’t forget that you can listen in our app, SoccrChapUtd, in the Apple and Google store.